2023 FIFA U-20 World Cup Squads: Full List

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The 2023 FIFA U-20 World Cup was a thrilling tournament showcasing the future stars of football. Held in Argentina from May 20th to June 11th, it featured 24 nations vying for the coveted trophy. For fans and scouts alike, the unveiling of each team's squad list was a moment of great anticipation. These squads represented a blend of emerging talents, seasoned youth players, and potential future stars. In this article, we delve into the complete squads of each participating nation, providing a comprehensive overview of the players who competed in this prestigious tournament.

Group A

Argentina

As the host nation, Argentina's squad was under immense pressure to perform. The team featured a mix of players from top domestic clubs and promising youngsters playing abroad. Key players included:

  • Goalkeepers: Federico Gomes Gerth, Nicolás Cláa, Franco Herrera
  • Defenders: AgustĂ­n Giay, Lautaro Di Lollo, ValentĂ­n GĂłmez, ValentĂ­n Barco, Lisandro Aguilar, Tomás AvilĂ©s
  • Midfielders: Mateo Tanlongo, Máximo Perrone, Ignacio MiramĂłn, ValentĂ­n Carboni, Juan Gauto, Federico Redondo
  • Forwards: Alejo VĂ©liz, Brian Aguirre, MatĂ­as SoulĂ©, Luka Romero, Ignacio Maestro Puch

Argentina aimed to leverage their home advantage and the quality within their squad to make a deep run in the tournament. The team's tactical approach focused on a strong defense and quick transitions, hoping to capitalize on the creative talents in their midfield and attack. The pressure was on, but the young Argentinians were determined to showcase their abilities on the world stage. They aimed to make their nation proud and add another U-20 World Cup title to their illustrious history. The blend of experienced players and fresh talent created a dynamic squad ready to face any challenge. With the passionate support of their home fans, Argentina was a force to be reckoned with in the tournament. The coaching staff meticulously prepared the team, focusing on both individual development and collective strategy. Every player was ready to give their all for the national team, driven by the dream of lifting the trophy on home soil.

Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan's squad was built around a core of players who had gained experience in the AFC youth competitions. They were a team known for their discipline and tactical organization. Key players included:

  • Goalkeepers: Otabek Boymurodov, Asrorbek Kenjaev, Edem Nemanov
  • Defenders: Izzatillo Pulatov, Abduqodir Khusanov, Jakhongir Urozov, Zafarmurod Abdurakhmatov, Saidazamat Mirsaidov
  • Midfielders: Abbosbek Fayzullaev, Umarali Rakhmonaliev, Sherzod Esanov, Bekhruz Askarov, Diyor Kholmatov
  • Forwards: Shakhzod Nematjonov, Makhmudjon Makhamadjonov, Khusain Norchaev, Pulatbek Yuldashov

Uzbekistan approached the tournament with a focus on defensive solidity and quick counter-attacks. Their midfielders were tasked with controlling the tempo and creating opportunities for their forwards. The team's success hinged on their ability to remain disciplined and capitalize on any mistakes made by their opponents. Uzbekistan's participation in the tournament was a testament to their growing investment in youth football development. The players were eager to showcase their skills and prove that Uzbek football was on the rise. The coaching staff emphasized teamwork and tactical awareness, preparing the team to compete against some of the best young talents in the world. Uzbekistan aimed to make a statement and advance beyond the group stage, demonstrating the potential of their youth system. With a blend of technical skill and tactical discipline, they were a team that could surprise many. The players were determined to make their nation proud and leave a lasting impression on the tournament.

New Zealand

New Zealand's squad featured a number of players who had experience playing in professional leagues both domestically and abroad. They brought a physical and direct style of play to the tournament. Key players included:

  • Goalkeepers: Kees Sims, Henry Gray, Oscar Mason
  • Defenders: Finn Surman, Lukas Kelly-Heald, Isaac Hughes, Jackson Jarvie
  • Midfielders: Jay Herdman, Fin Conchie, Oliver Colloty, Noah Karunaratne, Ben Wallace
  • Forwards: Norman Garbett, Kian Donkers, Oscar van Hattum, Cheick Kone

New Zealand relied on their physicality and set-piece prowess to compete in the tournament. Their defenders were strong in the air, and their forwards were quick and direct. The team's goal was to advance beyond the group stage and prove that they could compete with the top teams in the world. New Zealand's participation in the tournament highlighted the progress of football in the country. The players were proud to represent their nation and eager to showcase their abilities on the global stage. The coaching staff focused on building a cohesive team with a strong work ethic. New Zealand aimed to make a statement and demonstrate the potential of their youth players. With a combination of physicality and determination, they were a team that could pose a challenge to any opponent. The players were committed to giving their all and making their country proud.

Guatemala

Guatemala's squad was largely composed of players from their domestic league. They were making their first appearance in the U-20 World Cup since 2011 and were looking to make a positive impression. Key players included:

  • Goalkeepers: Jorge Moreno, Fausto Delgado, JosĂ© Aguirre
  • Defenders: Mathius Gaitán, Allan Juárez, Randy Mendoza, Jefry Bantes
  • Midfielders: ArquĂ­mides Ordóñez, Daniel Cardoza, NĂ©stor Cabrera, Carlos Santos
  • Forwards: Jorge SolĂłrzano, Edy Palencia, Jocsán Barrientos, Anderson Villagrán

Guatemala approached the tournament with a focus on defensive organization and counter-attacking opportunities. Their players were determined to showcase their talent and prove that Guatemalan football was on the rise. The team's goal was to gain valuable experience and compete with the best young players in the world. Guatemala's participation in the tournament was a significant milestone for the country's football program. The players were proud to represent their nation and eager to make a positive impact. The coaching staff emphasized discipline and teamwork, preparing the team to compete against tough opponents. Guatemala aimed to learn from the experience and continue to develop their youth players. With a spirit of determination and unity, they were ready to face the challenges of the tournament.

Group B

United States

The United States brought a strong squad with several players already playing professionally in MLS and Europe. They were considered one of the favorites to win the tournament. Key players included:

  • Goalkeepers: Gaga Slonina, Antonio Carrera, Michael Nelson
  • Defenders: Jonathan GĂłmez, Caleb Wiley, Marcus Ferkranus, Brandan Craig, Justin Che
  • Midfielders: Obed Vargas, Jack McGlynn, Daniel Edelman, Niko Tsakiris
  • Forwards: Cade Cowell, Diego Luna, Quinn Sullivan, Owen Wolff

The United States aimed to play an attacking brand of football, utilizing the speed and skill of their forwards and midfielders. Their defense was solid, and their goalkeeping was reliable. The team's goal was to win the tournament and establish themselves as a force in youth football. The United States' participation in the tournament was a reflection of their growing investment in player development. The players were confident and determined to showcase their abilities on the world stage. The coaching staff emphasized tactical flexibility and a winning mentality, preparing the team to compete against any opponent. The United States aimed to make a statement and prove that they were among the best in the world. With a blend of talent and determination, they were a team that could go far in the tournament. The players were committed to giving their all and making their country proud.

Ecuador

Ecuador's squad featured several players who had already made an impact in their domestic league. They were known for their technical ability and attacking flair. Key players included:

  • Goalkeepers: Gilmar Napa, Cristhian Loor, Tony JimĂ©nez
  • Defenders: Daniel de la Cruz, Davis Bautista, Christian GarcĂ­a, Yeltzin Erique
  • Midfielders: Sebastián González, Ă“scar Zambrano, Kendry Páez, Alan Minda
  • Forwards: Justin Cuero, JosĂ© Klinger, Tommy Chamba, Maelo RenterĂ­a

Ecuador aimed to play an attractive and attacking style of football, utilizing the creativity of their midfielders and the finishing ability of their forwards. Their defense was organized, and their goalkeeping was solid. The team's goal was to advance deep into the tournament and showcase the talent of Ecuadorian football. Ecuador's participation in the tournament was a testament to their strong youth development programs. The players were eager to represent their nation and demonstrate their skills on the global stage. The coaching staff emphasized teamwork and tactical awareness, preparing the team to compete against tough opponents. Ecuador aimed to make a statement and prove that they were a force to be reckoned with in youth football. With a blend of talent and determination, they were a team that could surprise many. The players were committed to giving their all and making their country proud.

Fiji

Fiji's squad was composed of players from their domestic league. They were making their second appearance in the U-20 World Cup and were looking to gain valuable experience. Key players included:

  • Goalkeepers: Aydin Mustahib, Joji Vuakaca, Isikeli Sevanaia
  • Defenders: Sterling Vasconcellos, Peceli Sukabula, Thomas Arthur, Peter Ravai
  • Midfielders: Nabil Begg, Gulam Razool, Mohammed Raheem, Geary Kubu
  • Forwards: Faazil Ali, Junior Bukalidi, Peniasi Rotidara, Arshad Khan

Fiji approached the tournament with a focus on defensive organization and counter-attacking opportunities. Their players were determined to showcase their talent and gain experience against some of the best young players in the world. The team's goal was to compete with pride and represent Fijian football to the best of their ability. Fiji's participation in the tournament was a significant achievement for the country's football program. The players were proud to represent their nation and eager to learn from the experience. The coaching staff emphasized discipline and teamwork, preparing the team to compete against tough opponents. Fiji aimed to make the most of the opportunity and continue to develop their youth players. With a spirit of determination and unity, they were ready to face the challenges of the tournament.

Slovakia

Slovakia's squad featured a mix of players from their domestic league and promising youngsters playing abroad. They were known for their strong work ethic and tactical discipline. Key players included:

  • Goalkeepers: Adam Danko, Samuel BelanĂ­k, Richard Hrdina
  • Defenders: Sebastian Kóša, Samuel Kopásek, Marek Ujlaky, Nicolas Sikula
  • Midfielders: Dominik Ĺ najder, Artur Gajdoš, Mário Sauer, Adam GaĹľi
  • Forwards: Timotej Jambor, Mate Szolgai, Leo Sauer, Damian Kachut

Slovakia aimed to play a disciplined and organized style of football, focusing on defensive solidity and quick transitions. Their midfielders were tasked with controlling the tempo and creating opportunities for their forwards. The team's success hinged on their ability to remain disciplined and capitalize on any mistakes made by their opponents. Slovakia's participation in the tournament was a testament to their growing investment in youth football development. The players were eager to showcase their skills and prove that Slovak football was on the rise. The coaching staff emphasized teamwork and tactical awareness, preparing the team to compete against some of the best young talents in the world. Slovakia aimed to make a statement and advance beyond the group stage, demonstrating the potential of their youth system. With a blend of technical skill and tactical discipline, they were a team that could surprise many. The players were determined to make their nation proud and leave a lasting impression on the tournament.

Conclusion

The 2023 FIFA U-20 World Cup was a fantastic showcase of young footballing talent from around the globe. Examining the squads of each participating nation provides valuable insight into the future stars of the sport. From Argentina's home advantage to the United States' strong squad, each team brought its unique blend of talent and determination to the tournament. The event not only highlighted the skill and potential of these young players but also demonstrated the global reach and passion for football. As these players continue their careers, the experiences and exposure gained at the U-20 World Cup will undoubtedly shape their development and contribute to the future of football. The tournament served as a platform for these young athletes to showcase their abilities, gain international experience, and represent their countries with pride. The memories and lessons learned from this prestigious event will stay with them as they embark on their professional journeys, inspiring them to reach new heights and contribute to the beautiful game for years to come. The 2023 FIFA U-20 World Cup will be remembered as a celebration of youth football and a glimpse into the future of the sport.